Spurs hire former Magic coach James Borrego as assistant coach

Former Orlando Magic interim head coach James Borrego will join Gregg Popovich's staff as assistant coach, reports the Orlando Sentinel's Josh Robbins. Real GM's Sham Charania first reported the discussions earlier today, so either the negotiations moved fast or the Spurs kept them secret.

With the recent departure of Jim Boylen, the Spurs had Ettore Messina and Ime Udoka on the bench next to Popovich but were lacking a third experienced assistant coach. The hiring of Borrego fixes that while allowing Becky Hammon to continue to learn on the job instead of being thrust into a large role two years into her coaching career.

Borrego had his start with the Spurs as a video coordinator back in 2001 and made his way up to assistant coach before leaving to join Monty Williams' staff in New Orleans and then Jacque Vaughn's in Orlando. Once Vaughn was fired, Borrego took over to finish the 2014/15 season as interim coach. The Magic hired Scott Skiles this offseason and Borrego was allowed to pursue other opportunities. He was reportedly in talks to join Billy Donovan's staff in Oklahoma City but Boylen's departure facilitated his return to San Antonio.

His age, familiarity with the system and experience as a head coach makes him a perfect hire to cover Boylen's job.